Refining Your Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a very personal choice, one that you should make with a board-certified plastic surgeon whom you trust. If you’re thinking about augmentation surgery, you have number of breast enhancement options to choose from.

Size is a major consideration, of course. Implant type—whether saline or silicone gel—is also a big issue. But implants have other features that are also vitally important to achieving your breast enhancement goals. Let’s examine all the other factors that should be part of the thought process. Your surgeon is your partner is making these crucial decisions.

Implant Type. Saline and silicone gel implants are available in the United States. Since saline implants may be filled after being inserted, the incision can be very small yet still accommodate the empty implant. Silicone gel implants are fixed in size and require a slightly larger incision to insert, but many plastic surgeons and patients think that silicone gel implants have a more natural look and feel. The most natural-looking results from saline implants tend to be seen in women with a moderate amount of existing breast tissue.

Implant Size. While an increase in breast size is the goal of augmentation surgery, this aspect of the procedure should be approached thoughtfully. The existing breast tissue must have enough volume to accommodate the size of the implant; otherwise it may be seen through the skin, so size is a major factor to discuss with your plastic surgeon. The size of your ribcage and your chest structure also figure into the discussion. Ideally, the implants should give you the look you desire while being in proportion to your frame and body shape.

Implant Shape. Depending on the manufacturer, implants are available in round or contoured shapes. Round implants create fullness in the upper breast, while contoured implants look more like a natural sloping breast.

Implant Width and Profile. Implants are offered in a variety of sizes according to profile and base width. Implant profile refers to the degree that the implant will project from the body. The base width of an implant should be determined by the diameter of your natural breast and your frame. The base width is a key measurement in choosing an implant that will create a natural silhouette that complements your body type.

Surface Texture. Both saline and silicone breast implants have a silicone shell and are available with smooth or textured surfaces. Your plastic surgeon can discuss the merits of surface texture with you.

While there are also surgical approaches to consider, such as implant placement and incision site, the decisions to be made about the implants are very important. If you’re contemplating surgery to increase your breast size, please come in for a consultation so we can talk about all your options. Through a partnership with your plastic surgeon, you can develop realistic breast enhancement goals that improve your appearance and increase your self-confidence.